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The internet has become an essential part of many people’s lives in the 21st Century. It’s sometimes difficult to think what we did without it! The internet allows us to find and exchange information like never before but it can also lead to certain dangers that many of us have never encountered and do not expect.
Many people now socialize, research papers, get news, listen to music, shop, watch videos and access countless other forms of information, services and conversation through the web. Some unpleasant, annoying and even dangerous aspects that anyone can be vulnerable to include computer viruses, bullying, abuse, hoaxes, identity theft, and manipulation. Following some basic rules can help teens, children and adults to avoid the hazards of online life:
Guidelines for young internet users
Remember these rules whether you are chatting, emailing, blogging or moblogging: be smart and stay safe!
- Keep your identity private: don’t give out your real name, phone number, school name, address, password or banking/credit card details.
- Remember: people aren’t always who they seem to be. Be cautious about getting together with someone you meet online – make sure you have as much information as possible about them and get permission from your parent or caregiver first.
- Don't respond to emails or chats that are mean to you or make you feel uncomfortable in any way. Bullying and abuse happen online: tell a trusted adult if they are happening to you.
- Don't trust everything you read online! The web is often unedited and unmonitored, so you have to look for reliable sources.
- Be careful about opening emails and files from people you don’t know that well: they can contain viruses or unpleasant messages.
- Use virus protection! It is essential to protecting your computer and should be updated regularly.
- Communicate with a trusted adult (parent or caregiver) about being online. Even if they don’t know as much about the Internet as you, try to keep them informed and let them know what is good and bad about the Internet – and why.
Guidelines for parents
- Talk with your child or teen about the dangers and the usefulness of online life.
- Listen to his/her point of view and agree on some online safety rules for your family.
- Don’t pull the plug! Remember how it feels to be a teen. The internet is an important part of living and socializing today. Try understanding and compromise before you cut them off.
- Consider filtering software but talk to your child first about appropriate use of the internet. Filters that rely on keywords can block information that might be useful, such as Planned Parenthood sites.
- Learn as much as you can about the internet. You can find information on the Internet and Internet safety on web sites such as:
- Times change fast! Keep up with the latest information and trends by talking to your child and researching online. The Cyberspace Research Unit posts regular press releases and updates.
- The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children's CyberTipLine (800 843-5678) is a web site and hotline for reporting online child abuse in the US.
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